Cabin on a remote island: Chichimé
Discover the paradise of San Blas and stay on one of the most special islands!
Burwa offers you the possibility of staying on Isla Chichimé, one of the best equipped islands for tourists among the more than three hundred islands that make up the San Blas Archipelago, north of Panama.
Isla Chichimé offers a tranquil and welcoming environment. This small island is ideal for those seeking rest and reconnection with nature in an authentic setting with all the basic amenities. Its colorful cabins are well-equipped so you can feel comfortable and in an intimate atmosphere to disconnect. It's worth noting that the infrastructure remains basic: electricity comes from solar panels or generators, and cell phone service is minimal.
A visit to Isla Chichimé includes a tour to several islands in the archipelago, where you can also snorkel and discover impressive biodiversity. The coral reefs are teeming with tropical fish, starfish, and, in some cases, sea turtles. Many islands have shallow, crystal-clear waters, perfect for exploring without specialized equipment.
The experience
5:30 AM
Your private driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Panama City. You will travel in a shared 4x4 with other travelers.
7:00 AM
The driver will make a stop of about 30 minutes at a restaurant where you can buy breakfast and snacks.
9:00 AM
After a couple of hours' journey through the mountains, you will arrive at the port where a boat will be waiting to take you to Isla Chichimé.
9:30 AM
You'll arrive at Isla Chichimé after a half-hour boat ride. You'll have some time to leave your belongings in your cabin before departing for the tour.
10:00 AM
The tour of the archipelago begins. The boatman will take you on a tour of several islands, including Perro Chico, the natural pool, the Sunken Ship, and the Marine Channels.
1:00 PM
During the tour, you'll stop for a local meal at a beachfront restaurant. For an additional fee, you can order lobster.
3:00 PM
The tour will end and you will be dropped back on Isla Chichimé to enjoy a peaceful afternoon of relaxation and a magical sunset.
8:00 PM
After sunset, the Guna will prepare dinner and call you as soon as it is ready so you can replenish your energy with a traditional meal.
9:00 PM
After dinner, you can enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.
8:00 AM +1
The next day, it will be time to return to the city. A boat will pick you up in the morning to take you to the port, where the driver will be waiting for you.
If you prefer, you can book a 'late check-out' for USD 30.00 and leave the island after lunch.
9:00 AM +1
Once at the port, the driver will pick you up and take you to Panama City, a journey of about three hours. You should arrive in the city around midday.
What's included
Round trip transportation
We'll pick you up at 5:30 AM from your accommodation and take you back to your chosen location. If you prefer, you can also reach Guna Yala by small plane. It's much faster and more comfortable. Contact us for a quote based on your travel dates.
Access taxes
These include the Guna regional tax and the port tax.
Bedroom with shared bathroom
Elevated wooden cabins for our guests. Shared bathroom outside the room.
Group tour to nearby islands
Visit several emblematic points of the archipelago, including the natural pool, the Sunken Ship, Perro Chico and the Marine Canals.
Kayaks available
The island has kayaks available for use whenever they are available.
Three typical meals per day
Breakfast, lunch (fish of the day or chicken), and dinner. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available. You can pre-order lobster of the day. Drinks not included. Children pay extra.
Check-out 8:00 AM
On the last day, the boat leaves the island at 8:00 AM, after breakfast. You'll be back in the city by noon.
For USD 30.00 per person, you can have a late check-out at 3:00 PM with lunch included.
Things to keep in mind
Scarce infrastructure
Guna Yala is a remote paradise made up of tiny islets. Therefore, infrastructure is scarce. They have limited generator power, and there is no hot water or air conditioning.
Mobile coverage
Most companies don't have mobile coverage, so be prepared to disconnect completely.
Rainy season
Panama's dry season runs from December to May. From June to November, heavy rain is possible for a couple of hours a day.
Drone permits
You can take as many photos and videos of the surroundings as you like, but be careful with drones. To fly a drone, you must apply for a permit that costs USD 1,000.00.
